UK Garden Centres - Our Top Picks

Started by founder Rodger Aylett at the age of 21 in 1955, this family-run nursery has gone on to win a number of awards and accolades – including Gardening Which – “Best Buy”.

The Nursery started as a Dalilah specialist and quickly grew into one of the countries best-loved garden centres. Their plants are grown to last – with a 2-year guarantee on each one!

You can find plenty of things to do here on a day out, from the many events they run throughout the year to the gift shops and restaurants. If you live local to the area, nip in for the Garden Re-Leaf Day on the 22nd March. This charity event is raising money for the Greenfingers charity and will have a whole host of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Grab a coffee and some cake, enter the tombola and enjoy the warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Stopping for lunch? Try the Dahlia Coffee House situated right in the heart of the centre. They have a range of hot and cold food and drink and even offer afternoon tea. This is the perfect little spot to refuel before taking a walk around.

Barton Grange Garden Centre combines beautiful plants and flowers with delicious food and expert advice.

Visit the farm shop for daily fresh produce including fruit, vegetables and dairy. You can also pick up a bottle of red wine and frozen foods. Fancy something sweet? Greenhalgh’s bakery delivery cakes and sweet treats to the centre daily, perfect to enjoy with a coffee.

The centre is home to two fantastic restaurants – Riverside Café and Willows Restaurant. Have a light bite including pastries and coffee. Kids can get a 5-piece lunch box with free activity sheets and crayons.

They also have fantastic events running throughout the year, such as watercolour classes, mother/children workshops and craft courses! Check out their website below for more information:

Based in Warrington, Bents is a large garden store that caters to everything from plants and garden furniture to gifts, pet supplies and clothing.

Take some time out from shopping at one of the fantastic restaurants on site. Take your pick of tapas, soups, patisseries or even the dog-friendly café!

Bents have a whole host of events happening year-round! Make sure to check out their spring fashion show, Easter egg making course and summer planting workshops.

This lovely little garden centre has recently undergone a rebrand and is currently having a refurbishment to bring it up to date. They offer a fantastic range of plants and flowers and are renowned for the shelf life of their greenery!

It is a local saying “If it can grow at Yarnton, It can grow anywhere”. This refers to the volume of rainfall and low temperatures they experience throughout the year. You know if you buy a plant from Yarnton, it is going to last.

They also have a quaint café on site serving up some homemade sweet treats. Stop off for afternoon tea or go for a Sunday lunch with the family. It is proper home-style cooking with a warm welcome.